In this episode, hosts Debbie and Katy, or should we say Lara Croft and Donkey (need to listen to understand why this is so) explore the realities of working life whilst living with inflammatory arthritis.

Next week is the Q&A episode so please do send in your questions, especially voicenotes here https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/contact-us/ so you can be on the next episode of Inflammatory!

First, they have a light-hearted conversation about pets especially as it was National Love your Pet Day. Please visit Inflammatory Arthritis UK socials to see Whiskey, Debbie’s dog, debut! They also cover humorous personal anecdotes, including some unusual nicknames.

They both reflect on being made redundant from different jobs and industries last year, highlighting how stress, a known trigger for IA, impacted them and their IA. The ongoing stress of looking for work, discuss what should or shouldn’t be included in your CV and a dive into the evolving workplace landscape. How laptops have moved on, and the sound of dial up still gives Debbie anxiety to this day! Make sure you listen to the end to fully understand.

They explore what it means for employers to offer flexible working from day 1? Do they like working from home or do they prefer the office? How work provides them with routine and a purpose but discuss how they plan their day so they don’t trigger an IA flare.

They also cover how employees with IA can advocate for their needs, how communication is key, what their manager should be doing and how being confident and open about your needs really can help. However, there is support out there for people who may have been discriminated against due to their IA? Support can be found here:

Citizens Advice

ACAS

Equality Advisory and Support Service

Next Episode Teaser:

Please do send us your questions for the next Q&A session.

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🎧 Listen now and remember: You’re not alone in this journey.

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Welcome to #fuckitland (you’ll need to listen to the episode to have any idea what we mean by this!).

Debbie and Katy come out of their comfort zones and dive into an often-overlooked topic: relationships and sex while living with inflammatory arthritis and sex.

They take a deep dive to explore the challenges of relationships and intimacy for those living with inflammatory arthritis. Discuss the physical limitations that affect sex, such as pain, stiffness, fatigue, and medication side effects, and emphasise the importance of open communication and setting boundaries with partners.

They also highlight the emotional impact of the condition, including self-confidence struggles and fears of being a burden. Debbie shares her experiences navigating relationships with arthritis, while also reflecting on how societal attitudes have changed over time.

They also speak openly about their experiences with the condition and emphasize that those affected are not alone. Katy shares her recent hand therapy session, where she learned about pain management and the importance of mobility, strength, and control. Debbie, on the other hand, talks about a difficult weekend due to an arthritis flare-up that even disrupted her plans with her husband. She also discusses the challenges of parenting, especially during her children's stressful exam period, and her new role as a trustee for an art therapy charity.

The key takeaway is that people with inflammatory arthritis can still have fulfilling relationships and sex lives by embracing self-confidence, being clear about their needs, and surrounding themselves with supportive partners.

Resources & Links:

• Visit inflammatoryarthritis.org for more information and resources.
• Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Blue Sky, and LinkedIn for updates and community support.

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🎧 Listen now and let’s keep the conversation going!

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Trigger warning - this episode contains discussions about suicidal thoughts

In this episode, Debbie and Katy open up about the often-overlooked mental health challenges of living with inflammatory arthritis.

Firstly, Katy shares that she is in a better mood, helped by her netball team's rare win and the pain in her wrist didn’t turn into an IA flare. Along with the excitement of her son losing his first tooth and the going rate of Tooth Fairies.

They go on to share their personal experiences with anxiety, depression, and the emotional toll of chronic illness. From the overwhelming fear of their futures made worse by internet searches after diagnosis to the daily struggles of managing pain. They discuss coping strategies, especially in the dark moments including suicidal thoughts, and emphasise small daily victories.

They also explore the importance of acknowledging mental health alongside physical health, and the role of support systems including loved ones and pets, and strength through connection with others facing similar struggles in finding hope.

The conversation highlights the need for better mental health resources, reassuring listeners that they are not alone and it is ok to talk about mental health and to seek help.

Key Topics Covered:

• How inflammatory arthritis affects mental health
• Anxiety, depression, and the fear of the unknown after diagnosis
• Personal experiences with dark moments and the struggle to stay positive

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